We're Open -- a Little

 The link for this week's livestreamed service is here:

Last week, on the first Sunday of in-person worship since November, we had 38 people in the pews. It was lovely to see some familiar faces, even if they were wearing masks. This week we had 36, including Will who has grown so much since we last saw him I think he should count as two!

The only mid-week events at the church so far is the Tai Chi class that meets in the parking lot, and rehearsal with the week's soloist. Rev. Irwin was attending the virtual General Assembly in the first half of the week. (This page features highlights from the meeting.) Tore has made use of the lack of activity to do some painting. 

Inside, he has painted the conduit and electrical outlet that was exposed when the front of the church was rearranged. I am very grateful for this touch up as I found the industrial look irksome and distracting.

Outside, he has painted the wood on the office side of the building. Last summer and fall he and Al had replaced the rotted boards but now they have a fresh coat of paint to complete the job.

If you think our building is brick and stucco, have another look. There is a lot of wood panelling and trim that needs regular painting. This photo shows the outside of the lounge -- windows, panels and a door all freshly painted.

The cross on the north side of the church was a bigger challenge. Not only does it require the tall ladder, but the inside edges had to be hand sanded before new paint was applied. The ring on the cross is metal so it too had to be sanded, the area covered over and some trusty Tremclad paint sprayed over it.

One of the fruits of the spirit is hospitality. Keeping our church building safe, clean and attractive extends hospitality to friends and strangers alike. As the doors open wider when COVID-19 restrictions ease, we'll welcome each other with smiles and hugs and a cup of coffee. Until then, fresh paint, a tended flower bed, and a tidy lawn offer a welcome to all.